Definition

1. Noun:
   • A hoof divided into two parts at its distal extremity (as of ruminants or swine): A foot structure, characteristic of animals like cows, sheep, goats, and pigs, where the hoof is split into two distinct toes or sections.
   • The mark of Satan: A symbolic representation of the Devil, derived from the traditional depiction of Satan or demons having cloven hooves like a goat or bull.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Literal, anatomical):
  • The deer left clear tracks in the mud with its cloven hoof.
  • Ruminants like cattle are easily identified by their cloven hooves.
• Noun (Symbolic, religious/mythological):
  • In the painting, the demon was depicted with a tail and a cloven hoof.
  • The legend claimed the witch's familiar had the cloven hoof of a goat.

Advanced Usage

• "To show the cloven hoof": To reveal one's true, often evil or diabolical, nature or intentions.
  • He seemed charming at first, but his cruelty soon showed the cloven hoof.

Variants and Related Words

• Cloven-footed (adj): Having divided hooves.
  • Cloven-footed animals are common in pastoral regions.
• Cloven (adj): Split or divided, especially used in the context of hooves.
  • The cloven print was fresh on the trail.

Synonyms

• Divided hoof: The literal anatomical term.
• Cleft hoof: An alternative term for a split hoof.

Related Idioms

• "To show one's cloven hoof/cloven foot": An idiom meaning to reveal a hidden evil character or malicious intent.
  • His sudden rage showed the cloven hoof beneath his polite exterior.

Noun

1. a hoof divided into two parts at its distal extremity (as of ruminants or swine)
2. the mark of Satan